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What is the volume of the Subaru crosstrek?

The standard Subaru Crosstrek offers about 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to about 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Crosstrek Hybrid provides slightly less cargo room due to its battery, roughly 19.3 cubic feet behind the seats and about 43.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.

In this article, we break down cargo capacity, passenger space, and fuel capacity to give a full picture of how much volume the Crosstrek accommodates for people and gear across current model years.

Cargo capacity by variant

Below are the standard gasoline Crosstrek figures and the Crosstrek Hybrid numbers for current model years, showing space behind the rear seats and with the rear seats folded.

Gasoline Crosstrek: 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats; 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Crosstrek Hybrid: 19.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats; 43.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

In practice, the non-hybrid Crosstrek provides the most cargo space, while the hybrid trades some room for electrification hardware.

Other volume specifications

To round out the picture, here are additional volume metrics that matter for everyday use.

Passenger volume: about 100.0 cubic feet, providing a roomy feel for occupants.

Fuel tank capacity: 16.9 gallons (approximately 64 liters).

These figures complement the cargo numbers, giving a fuller sense of how the Crosstrek handles people and gear on a daily basis.

Summary

Across current Crosstrek configurations, you can expect roughly 20.8 cu ft of cargo space behind the rear seats and about 55.3 cu ft with the seats folded for the gasoline model, with the Crosstrek Hybrid offering slightly less in both measurements. Passenger space hovers around 100 cubic feet, and the fuel tank holds 16.9 gallons. Together, these volumes determine how the Crosstrek functions as a compact, versatile traveler.

What is the cargo volume of a Subaru Crosstrek?

The Subaru Crosstrek has 19.9 to 20.0 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which increases to a maximum of 54.7 to 54.9 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. The exact maximum capacity can vary slightly by model year and trim level, such as the Wilderness version, which offers a slightly larger maximum space.
You can watch this video to see how much cargo space is available in the Subaru Crosstrek with the seats up and down: 46sJAX AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 30, 2023

Seats up: Approximately 19.9 to 20.0 cubic feet.
Seats down: Approximately 54.7 to 54.9 cubic feet.
Practical use: The space is sufficient for everyday needs like groceries, and with the seats folded, it can accommodate larger items like bicycles or camping gear.

Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?

Subaru is not discontinuing the Crosstrek model line entirely, but the Crosstrek Hybrid (PHEV) was discontinued in the U.S. due to slow sales and Subaru's strategic shift toward new hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) platforms that will be shared with Toyota. Subaru is still producing the standard Crosstrek and is developing new hybrid and EV models based on its new Global Platform, which will offer a new hybrid system for the Crosstrek in the future. The discontinuation of the manual transmission option was also driven by declining demand.
This video discusses the reasons behind the discontinuation of the Crosstrek Hybrid and Subaru's future plans for electrification: 46sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Jun 9, 2025

Hybrid model discontinued: The Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid was dropped after a short run in the U.S. because it only accounted for a small percentage of total sales.
Strategic shift to new platforms: Subaru is focusing on developing new hybrid and EV models using its new Global Platform, which is designed to accommodate these powertrains. The company is working with Toyota on future EV platforms to improve profitability and innovation.
Manual transmission phased out: The manual transmission option was discontinued due to declining sales, as a small percentage of buyers opted for it compared to automatic transmissions.
Standard Crosstrek remains available: The gasoline-powered Crosstrek continues to be a popular and available model.
Future hybrid return: Subaru has stated that it will launch a new hybrid Crosstrek in the future, likely with a new hybrid system and on the new Global Platform.

This video explains the changes coming to the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, including updates to the powertrain options: 55sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Nov 4, 2024

Which is better, the Toyota RAV4 or the Subaru Crosstrek?

The better SUV depends on your priorities: choose the Toyota RAV4 for more power, greater interior and cargo space, and a strong reputation for reliability. The Subaru Crosstrek is the better choice for standard all-wheel drive, off-road capability, a lower starting price, and a more modern interior design.
This video compares the Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Crosstrek to help you decide which one is right for you: 59sAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Jan 12, 2025
Toyota RAV4

Performance: Offers a more powerful engine with quicker acceleration and slightly better fuel economy, especially in the hybrid model.
Space: Provides more interior space for passengers and a significantly larger cargo area.
Reliability: Has a stronger reputation for long-term reliability.

Subaru Crosstrek

Standard AWD: Comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, while the RAV4 requires a higher trim for AWD.
Off-road capability: Features higher ground clearance and standard off-road features like X-MODE and a higher ride height, making it better for trails and rough terrain.
Value: Has a lower starting price, which can be more budget-friendly.
Interior: Features a more modern design with a large vertical touchscreen, though the materials may feel less premium than the RAV4.

What year Crosstrek to stay away from?

Years to potentially avoid for the Subaru Crosstrek include the 2016 and 2018 models due to issues like drivetrain vibrations, infotainment problems, and oil consumption. The early years of the first generation, specifically 2013-2015, should also be approached with caution due to common issues like oil consumption and head gasket problems with the 2.5-liter engine.
Years with more reported issues

2016: Has been associated with drivetrain vibrations and faulty infotainment systems.
2018: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, glitchy technology, and a serious safety concern regarding the rear wheels kicking out, causing fishtailing.
2013-2015: These early models, particularly with the 2.5L engine, are prone to head gasket problems and excessive oil consumption. The 2012 Impreza shared this generation and also had issues with its CVT and oil consumption.

Other years to consider

2017: Generally considered a safer bet with fewer reported issues and recalls.
2019: While some sources suggest avoiding it due to numerous recalls and a significant number of complaints related to the ECM software causing unexpected engine stalls, other owners have reported it as reliable.
2021: This model year has received positive marks for reliability.
2023: This year is often recommended as one of the better choices in the second generation.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.